23 Best Tactical Pants for Men

For a long time, we’ve associated tactical pants with professionals in the military, SWAT teams, law enforcement, or firefighting professions. There is a valid reason for this. After all, the best tactical pants are not exactly the everyday trousers you would normally wear to the office or on a date. They may look similar to cargo pants, except they are imbued with technical modifications that cater to anyone’s needs finding themselves in tactical and unexpected situations. And in many cases, tactical pants are made from fibers and materials that are tough enough to outlast any other pants or maybe even the closet that houses them.

But fret not weekend warriors who still want to get a sweet pair of useful, rugged and sturdy pants. Not every single pair of tactical pants is cranked up to 11 on the “hardcore tactical needs” scale. Nowadays, we have the privilege of tapping into the functional and aesthetic traits of tactical pants and convert them into garments for everyday use. Commonly, the best tactical pants for men have reinforced seams, extra pockets, camouflage colour patterns, and are made of low maintenance and easy-to-wash fabrics.

So aside from imagining yourself as the sole survivor of a zombie apocalypse in your town, what else are tactical pants with a bit of style good for? Maybe they can complement your swing at the golf course, protect your legs when traversing the backcountry, or wear minimalistic yet functional tactical pants as you go globetrotting, that is, when this stupid pandemic is over. Despite their rugged makeup, you can wear tactical pants all day and still stay comfortable. That is the magic of modern textile manufacturing techniques. The application of tactical pants in your daily lifestyle is nearly endless.

In this quick guide, I’ve handpicked the best tactical pants for men that you can find. Our rigorous review process relies on a variety of factors to sieve out the best from the rest. Each pair of tactical pants scores on attributes like overall construction, reinforced design, style, strategic storage, durability, holster compatibility, having cinched or tapered ankles, weather protection, terrain type, ease of movement, and available colorways.

Your ideal tactical pants should help to defend and protect you like your choice weapon or sidearm. Hence, it will feature such reinforcements as a bulletproof DuPont Teflon fabric, ripstop polyester or polycotton material, knee-pad compatibility, and robust belt loops. Second, if you are a mountain climber, camper, or overall outdoors person, you want pants built for adventure. A lightweight option with camouflage colour schemes gives you an advantage when hunting game. Khaki or traverse designs will blend into the environment, giving you leeway to approach your target unnoticed. Other features include their ability to accommodate all your essentials as a minimalistic traveller. Still, you need to get the waist size, leg length, knee padding, and inseams correct. Otherwise, you will have to contend with nasty bites from insects while out camping, or your feet get exposed to the harsh weather elements.

1. CQR Men’s Tactical Pants

Are you looking for tactical pants befitting a survival adventure of extreme circumstances? Consider the CQR Men’s tactical pants as an affordable choice for tactical pants. These pants are made of a Duratex fabric that includes a cotton ripstop fabric blend. This material will repel any dirt, liquids, or stains while remaining wrinkle-free and fade-free for years to come. And its multipurpose cargo pockets to fit your survival kit and other essential tools make for plenty of storage space. Its mag pocket has a velcro closure to secure your phone, multi-tools, and mags. These tactical pants use an elastic waistband and a D-ring for a convenient hook-on installation. Plus, there is an optional tactical belt sold separately that you can add to this awesome pair of tactical pants.

2. LA Police Gear Men’s Water-Resistant Operator Tactical Pant

LA Police Gear makes great tactical pants for men and women in uniform. The company’s Water-Resistant Operator Tactical Pants features an elastic waistband, a 1.75″ Belt Loop, and an airport-friendly YKK Zipper for anyone always on the move. Its ripstop cotton fabric blend has a rugged yet breathable finish keeping you cool and dry when in hot conditions. Plus, they look pretty great and are available in ten colorways, so you can apply a touch of fashion to your tactical and outdoor adventuring outings.

3. 5.11 Tactical Men’s Stryke Operator Uniform Pants w/Flex-Tac

The 5.11 Tactical Men’s Stryke Operator Uniform Pants have features to cater to any demanding mission or rugged outdoor trip. First, these amazing tactical pants use a Teflon-treated fabric with a protective finish guarding against dirt, stains, and moisture. The resulting material is easy to clean and tough as nails, so-to-speak. Second, it uses a fully gusseted inseam design to achieve a flexible and comfortable fit. Another benefit of the construction of these is that you’ll never have to worry about a sudden turn or stretch ripping or tearing the pants. Finally, these pants incorporate 12 pockets, including front cargo pockets with dividers and mag pockets that fit an average smartphone. The waistline is self-adjusting, keeping the pants in place regardless of the items’ weight in your pockets. And, its double-layered knee pads provide ample cushion at your pressure points.

4. Triple Aught Design – Force 10 Ac Cargo Pant

The Force 10 AC Cargo Pant has a streamlined fit design that conceals features for an active person. So what makes these tactical pants for men special? How about the ten pockets with flaps and dividers, seat and knee reinforcements, belt loops with D-rings, gusseted crotch, YKK zippers, adjustable leg drawstrings, and logo patch on the thigh pocket. All these attributes sit on top of a base of water-repellent all-nylon fabric with triple and double-needle stitching throughout. Overall a truly great combination of style, comfort and utility. Don’t sleep on these pants.

5. 5.11 – APEX™ PANT

The APEX™ PANT has a functional style designed for maximum resilience. These are next-generation cargo pants with a Flex-Tac® mechanical stretch and a comfortable waistband. It is a gusseted construction that ensures the pants last for years without tearing or ripping. Next, ten pockets include deep cargo pockets, a handcuff key pocket, and a flex cuff pocket. Further, the pants use Teflon® treated to repel moisture, dirt, and stains. With a nice and uncomplicated straight fit, these grey tactical pants happen to come in a wide range of tactically friendly colours.

6. Tru-Spec Men’s 24-7 Series Ascent Pant

There are no tactical pants that conform to your body contours like the Tru-Spec Men’s 24-7 Series Ascent Pants. These tactical pants are assembled from a lightweight polyester and cotton blend with a fitted waistband. This material’s micro ripstop mechanical stretch allows you to run, make wide steps, or jump as you wish without feeling constrained. Its 2-inch belt loops and gusseted crotch come in handy when squatting or supporting a large belt for carrying firearms, handcuffs, or tactical equipment. Finally, the pants use a DWR water repellent coating and YKK brass zipper closure to lock out moisture, dirt, or stains. And depending on the size and colour of your choice, they’re also quite budget-friendly as far as tactical pants go.

7. Challenge Pants – Lightweight

The Challenge Pants-Lightweight are dual-way stretch tactical pants using a super-fast-drying, abrasion-resistant ToughDry® fabric. These are the types of materials you’d find people on a rescue mission in wet weather wearing. These pants include a diamond gusset that stretches some more when running or squatting. Plus, its articulated knees and curved waistband feel comfortable, allowing for extra range of motion. These tactical pants use spacious zippered cargo pockets come with drain holes for quick seepage.

8. 5.11 – TACLITE® PRO PANT

The Taclite® Pro Pant is a pair of lightweight, flexible, and double-reinforced tactical pants from a company I’ve already mentioned a few times here. They use a cotton ripstop fabric with a Teflon® finish to create pants that can withstand extreme pressure. Think of running, jumping, or crawling while racing in the Spartan games or sweating it out at your favourite gym. These pants use an action waistband that keeps them in place regardless of your moves. Its eight pockets include strap-and-slash seat pockets with some extra pockets for your tactical gear. Do you need to kneel for long periods? In that case, you can count on the double-reinforced seat and knees that have an internal knee pad ready.

9. ZAPT Tactical Molle Ripstop Combat Trousers Army

Are you the kind of person who is keen on inspecting the minute details in your tactical pants? These amazing tactical pants will keep you busy for some time. These are the best tactical pants with aesthetic, functional, and safety features for the urban warrior. Expect a heavy-duty yet breathable ripstop fabric with dual layering at the seat and knee areas. There are a grand total of 12 pockets (yes, you read that right) (with substantial cargo pockets) and a rugged metal YKK zipper for the fly. Add to that a concealed Velcro strap system to help you adjust the waist to a custom fit.

10. Crye Precision – G4 COMBAT PANT™

G4 COMBAT PANT™ is a lightweight yet durable stretch tactical pant that is ideal for concealed carry. (Not that we condone that sort of thing around these parts). They are comprised of high tenacity nylon with low profile pockets, shifting down the weight of your load. The top has a dedicated knife holder, pass-through cargo pockets, and zip thigh pockets for your tactical gear and electronics. These pants rely on the adjustable padded waist for balance. Finally, its moisture-wicking waist lining keeps you comfortable despite any rigorous movements.

11. Under Armour Men’s Storm Covert Tactical Pants

Under Armor is a renowned brand for making functional sports gear. With this, you can expect premium quality properties in its Storm Covert Tactical Pants. The pants use the UA Storm Technology to keep the fabric dry in wet conditions while allowing optimum ventilation. They are made from a durable ripstop fabric with anti-odour reinforcement (thank God for small favours, right?). Likewise, the waistband is stretch, giving you unrestricted movement and all-day comfort. Use the included belt loops to holster your gear. What’s best about these tactical pants is that they don’t immediately scream out the fact that you’re prepping for some sort of tactical action. Nevertheless, with these tactical pants, you’ll be ready for anything.

12. AKARMY Men’s Military Tactical Pants

The AKARMY Men’s Military Tactical Pants equips anyone going on an escapade of a potentially hazardous nature. With these pants, you’ll get ten multipurpose pockets for all your survival tools, phones, and accessories. They feature a hoop and loop closure with heavy-duty zippers. Four of these are rear pockets with deep and secure storage, excellent for the gear that you need at hand. The pants are designed with a wrinkle-resistant cotton blend fabric and feature broad belt loops and an adjustable knee and leg opening. The various colourways are designed to camouflage-blend in with the environment and are great for applications such as fishing and hunting or when doing HIITS (high-intensity interval training).

13. Beyond Clothing – A5 – BROKK MS PANT

I’m not going to lie. These tactical pants are not exactly cheap. But there are a few good reasons for that. The A5 Brokk MS Pant is a lightweight tactical pant designed for active use in warmer weather. The durable 4-way stretch nylon shell protects you from the wind and rain while remaining insanely breathable for moisture transport and a cooling effect. 2-way stretch Cordura® in the crotch gusset and pockets provide added strength, making them the ideal tactical pants if you need lightweight durability for active use in warmer climates.

14. Arc’Teryx – ASSAULT PANT AR MEN’S

The Arc’Teryx brand is more well known for its lineup of technical gear designed for all kinds of outdoor adventures, including hiking, skiing, climbing, etc. We featured them as one of the best outdoor clothing brands for men and women a while back. But in addition to their main business line, Arc’Teryx has wisely taken their incredible prowess with technical materials and applied them to a line of tactical, law enforcement and military gear called LEAF. These tactical pants are a part of that collection. 

If you need tactical pants to serve multiple combat applications and a pair with removable and adjustable parts, these pants will fit that need. They have a flexible waist of up to 2 inches, an internal knee cap sleeve to accommodate removable soft knee pads, and reinforced belt loops compatible with the LEAF Rigger’s system Pocket Configuration. Further, its Velcro ankle cuff closure goes over the boots to seal them off in wet or muddy conditions.

15. Triple Aught Design – VECTOR SC PANT

Do you prefer getting in on the action with minimalistic tactical pants? The Vector SC Pant uses six secure pockets with hidden attachment points to exude minimalistic wear. Yet, its gusseted crotch, a 4-way stretch softshell, and a double weave construction guarantee high performance in the field. These tactical pants have a standard fit, are machine washable, and easy to use and maintain.

16. UF Pro Striker HT Combat Pants

The Striker Ht Combat Pants are a high-performance tactical pant with a specialized airflow system for improved comfort. The pants feature meshy openings at the groin area and knee pad pockets, redirecting air up the leg to and from the waist area. But, it is its Cordura® Fabric that keeps it resilient against any harsh handling and adverse weather and environmental conditions. The polycotton ripstop fabric is stretchy, wrinkle-resistant, and stain-resistant. These are some truly premium tactical pants that you’d be wrong to miss.

17. KUHL Renegade Pant – Men’s

The Kuhl Men’s Renegade Pant are a pair of laid-back tactical pants ideal for casual wear with the occasional outing that requires some level of leg protection above the standard pair of trousers. They rely on the abrasion-resistant Duralux fabric, known for its resistance against tears, rips, and scratches. So when you are in the mood for a weekend getaway in the backcountry, these pants will complement your trip. You can depend on the articulated knees for unlimited movements. Its peached waistband will keep you dry on a hot and humid day.

18. Vertx Men’s Travail Tactical Pants

Are you searching for tactical pants that look nothing like cargo pants? Consider picking up the Vertx Men’s Travail Tactical Pants. These are work pants with a lightweight, breathable fabric, relaxed waistband, and 16 pockets at strategic points for your convenience. I’m not entirely sure who would need 16 pockets, but hey, it is kind of a “to each his own” sort of world when it comes to tactical pants. These tactical pants for men include pockets that feature a 500D Cordura reinforcement for secure carry. The pants have six belt loops that are 0.875 inches wide to accommodate belts of up to 1.75 inches. The wallet traps come in handy when carrying lanyards, tactical pens, paracord survival bracelets and other survival gear.

19. BLACKHAWK Men’s Tac Life Pants

The BLACKHAWK Men’s Tac Life Pants are all-nylon tactical pants that are comfortable and long-lasting. The fabric does not fade or slide down with time. I guess that’s the benefit of an all-nylon pant. Additionally, these waterproof tactical pants have seven multipurpose pockets for your tactical gear, phone, knife, magazine, and keys. Its double front belt loops are excellent for badges and clips, and the gusseted crotch, articulated knees, reinforced stitching, and premium quality zippers guarantee unlimited movement and durability. So get your ass ready to slide into a pair of these bad boys and prepare for your adventure.

20. Vollebak – 100 Year Pants

If you’re going to call your pants the “100-year pants,’ you better make them so good that no-one can dispute your claim. Thankfully, for those with metaphorically deep pockets, these may be the most incredible tactical pants you’ll ever need to buy. If you buy a pair of these, it will most likely be the last pair of tactical pants you’ll ever need to buy. Made by a company called Vollebak who have a real penchant for creating apparel and accessories that are simply on another plane of existence, the 100 Year Pants are one of the few tactical pants certified as fireproof. For, these pants use triple layers of fabric, sandwiching a fireproof middle layer. This middle layer expands instantly up to 1000x upon detecting flames. Hence, it creates a protective barrier between you and the fire. So, if you are on a fire fighting mission or work in an environment prone to fire risks, wear these pants for ultimate protection.

Just don’t be surprised at the price of these quite possibly best tactical pants in the world. They are a truly premium product and thus command a truly premium price.

21. Caterpillar Men’s Trademark Pant

These pants, available in regular and big & tall sizes, are your ideal tactical pants when out in rainy or snowy conditions. These pants have a 20-inch leg opening that will cover your boots and prevent moisture and dirt from getting in. Its abrasion-resistant fabric is tough on the outside but is quite cozy on the inside, courtesy of its double-brushed lining. The gripper tape waistband prevents the pants from sagging. And, its pull out tool pockets will keep your gear dry and accessible at all times. Ideal for inclement weather and long periods of being outside, like perhaps on a construction site or while hunting, these sturdy pants are ideal for a wide variety of applications.

22. Helikon-Tex OTP Outdoor Tactical Pants, Outback Line

Here are some tactical pants that retail in the most versatile colourways. Regardless of what colour you choose, you can expect a durable, stretchy fabric that is comfortable all day. Its lightweight and breathable attributes make the pants ideal for hot and humid conditions. And, its low profile design, complete with protection pads, will redistribute the weight on your pockets, keeping you fatigue-free.

23. First Tactical V2 Men’s Tactical Pant with Micro Ripstop

If you have a smaller waistline and struggle with sagging tactical pants, opt for the First Tactical V2 Men’s Tactical Pant with Micro Ripstop for a perfect fit. These pants use a stretchy waistband available from size 28 to 54, accomodating most men. Plus, its triple stitching, french button fly, and durable YKK zipper guarantee it to last for years to come.

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